Elon Musk has joined the ranks of deficit hawks, publicly criticizing President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” for its “massive spending” and projected $2.3 trillion contribution to the national debt. His comments to CBS align with concerns raised by hardline Republicans, who have threatened to block the legislation in the Senate unless deeper cuts are made to reduce the national debt.
Musk’s previous role at the helm of the “department of government efficiency” (Doge) was focused on curbing state spending, making him a natural ally for Republicans pushing for fiscal conservatism. His public condemnation of the bill not only fuels the rumors of a growing rift between him and Trump but also provides additional ammunition for senators like Rand Paul, who have already labeled the bill’s cuts as “wimpy and anaemic.”
The bill’s controversial provisions, which include extending tax cuts, ending clean energy incentives, and making significant cuts to social safety net programs, have ignited a complex debate. While Trump aims to fulfill campaign promises, the substantial projected increase in the national debt and the impact on vulnerable populations have drawn criticism from across the political spectrum, now including a prominent figure like Elon Musk, who has historically been a strong supporter of the president.